Jacobs Media, PRPD Unveil 6th Annual Public Radio Tech Survey

July 23, 2014 at 7:10 AM (PT)

JACOBS MEDIA is unveiling its 6th Annual Public Radio Tech Survey in partnership with the Public Radio Program Directors Association (PRPD).

Among the highlights of PRTS6: Over seven in 10 respondents cited credible programming, deeper news perspective, ongoing learning and respect for the intelligence of the listener as the main reasons for listening to public radio; 75% of respondents agree that public radio news efforts are not influenced by advertisers or sponsors; streaming is growing fast, with 61% accessing online video and 49% streaming audio; 71% of respondents own a smartphone, and 56% carry a tablet; word-of-mouth scores are significantly stronger for public radio than commercial radio; Nearly six in 10 public radio listeners can pair a phone or mp3 player in their vehicles; 75% have a social media profile; and 36% say they're increasingly accessing news from digital sources.

PRPD Pres. ARTHUR COHEN said, "The survey results reinforce the strength of public radio's offerings -- on our traditional platform (radio) as well as the many digital channels. Maintaining those core values in all we offer is an opportunity to remain of service to our communities, even as their media habits change."

JACOBS MEDIA Pres. FRED JACOBS added, "PRTS6 points to the opportunities and challenges faced by public radio stations and the networks that provide its programming content. The audience's rapid migration to digital signifies the potential to satisfy their informational and entertainment needs on their preferred channels."

JACOBS will present key findings of the study at the PRPD Convention in PORTLAND SEPTEMBER 9th-11th. Register for the conference by clicking here.